A recurring theme for this week’s K-pop releases is soloists who are either stepping out into the spotlight for the first time or coming back to remind everyone that they’ve still got it. From DAY6’s Wonpil to KARD’s Somin and even former B.A.P member ZELO, everyone’s got something to prove.

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WONPIL - “Highs and Lows”

Kicking off this week of new releases is DAY6 member and keyboardist with “Highs and Lows,” a dramatic rock ballad with electronic flair. Compared to his 2022 debut album, Pilmography, which exuded feelings of comfort and warmth, his latest record, Unpiltered, takes a sharp turn into something much more vulnerable and emotionally raw — “Highs and Lows” reflects this sentiment perfectly. With an anthemic chorus that continues to build with the singer’s bottled-up emotions of hopelessness, the cathartic release of said feelings is almost as satisfying as Wonpil’s voice soaring through the track.

NiziU - “Too Bad”

While not a K-pop group, but still K-pop-adjacent, Japanese girl group NiziU has dropped the utterly infectious dance-pop track, “Too Bad,” the title track off their latest EP, GOOD GIRL BUT NOT FOR YOU. In this refreshingly bouncy single, “Too Bad” sees the girls “take control of their own future and forge ahead with confidence,” according to JYP Entertainment. Rather than becoming the object of someone else’s desires, the members unapologetically assert their autonomy, opting to put themselves first, regardless of what anyone else has to say about it.

KINO - “TAXI”

Since establishing his own music label (NAKED) in 2023, PENTAGON member KINO’s career has been nothing but artistic freedom, creativity, and the license to do just about anything he desires. From “Fashion Style” to “Skyfall,” you never know exactly what side of the 28-year-old you’re going to get. His latest single, “TAXI,” is an interesting collision of genres and ideas, blending quirky electropop with ‘80s synths, a touch of rock, and topped off with a nod to old-school hip-hop. In theory, it shouldn’t work, but with KINO’s carefree aura and vivacious attitude, it ends up being way more fun and convincing than it would be without him.

SOMIN of KARD - “Backseat”

Following her KARD bandmates' (BM and Jiwoo) solo debuts, Somin becomes the next member to release their own music with “Backseat.” Unleashing her inner pop/R&B persona, Somin slinks around this sultry beat with ease, using her naturally feather-like vocals to complement the heaviness of the track’s bass. “I don’t play games, I don’t relate to the shit that you do,” the singer snaps in the track’s opening. With every line and wave of her hands, Somin exudes confidence and swagger, and knows she’s a cut above the rest.

ZELO - “Cola Conmigo”

After breaking a hiatus of two years and three months, K-pop veteran and former B.A.P member Zelo is back on the music scene under a new company, VLACKSQUAD. In his first single under new management, Zelo spreads his wings and ventures into the Latin pop genre with “Cola Conmigo,” showcasing more of his smooth vocals compared to the usual rap tone he became known for in B.A.P. What’s even more interesting is that “Cola Conmigo” is solely a bilingual track with lyrics in both English and Portuguese and surprisingly, none in Korean. The decision to incorporate Portuguese lyrics specifically shows Zelo’s appreciation and dedication toward Brazilian culture and his willingness to go the extra mile as a sign of respect.